He was allegedly driving a city-owned vehicle issued to Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse.

The Mayor sent this statement to 22News in response to the incident.

“I wish to address an incident that happened last night. I was at an event in Northampton with some friends and my cousin Nick Duclos. As I left the event I realized that my car keys were not in my coat and the car was missing, so was Nick. I immediately tried calling him and then called the Northampton Police Department to report my car was missing. I was informed the car had been impounded and that Nick was arrested for OUI. At this point I took a taxi to the towing company, retrieved the car, and returned to my home.

This situation has left me feeling betrayed and disappointed. Nick made a stupid decision and he should have known there was absolutely no reason for him to have taken the car.

I want to be clear that at no point have I sought any favorable treatment for my cousin and am making this statement in order to be completely transparent. I am fully cooperating with the Northampton Police Department and have asked that all appropriate charges be filed.

There may be those who will try to use this to attack me and score political points. I understand that reaction, and due to the nature of my position, know that I am open to such criticism. However, to the extent possible, please respect Nick’s privacy while he comes to terms with his actions. What he did was unacceptable, he is family and I still love him and hope he can take time to reflect and learn from this.”